The Dianna Russini-Mike Vrabel saga took a new turn on Thursday after PageSix posted photos of the two reportedly kissing at a New York City bar in March 2020. Reports suggest that the New England Patriots coach had his wedding ring on at the bar. He has been married for over two decades, while Russini married later in September 2020.
“They were kissing and they were all over each other. He had a ring on,” an eyewitness told the publication.
Why an old tweet is haunting Dianna Russini
Meanwhile, a resurfaced social media post from Russini is drawing fresh attention online as fallout continues from newly emerged photos involving Mike Vrabel.
Amid the controversy, users have circulated a 2021 post from Russini in which she wrote: “Keep looking at my almost 4 day old son Michael while trying to figure out who are the best Michaels to ever play and coach in the NFL?”
The tweet has gained traction after users pointed out that Vrabel, whose first name is also Michael, had a long career as an NFL player before becoming a head coach. The timing of the post, coming a year after the 2020 photos were reportedly taken, has fueled online speculation.
Vrabel to skip part of NFL Draft
As the situation unfolds, Vrabel has confirmed he will step away from part of his professional duties. The Patriots head coach announced he will not attend Day 3 of the upcoming NFL Draft, opting instead to seek counseling.
Addressing the controversy on Tuesday, Vrabel said he had had “difficult conversations” with his family, the Patriots, coaches and players over the scandal which he described as “positive and productive.”
“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them,” Vrabel said
“In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.”
“I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person.”
